Watershed
WordNet
noun
(1) An event marking a unique or important historical change of course or one on which important developments depend
"The agreement was a watershed in the history of both nations"
(2) A ridge of land that separates two adjacent river systems
WiktionaryText
Etymology
, a calque of , a compound of + .
Noun
- A region of land within which water flows down into a specified body, such as a river, lake, sea, or ocean; a drainage basin or catchment basin.
- The topographical boundary dividing two adjacent catchment basins.
- A critical point marking a change in course or development.
- The time after which material of more adult nature (violence, swear words, sex) may be broadcast on television or radio.
Synonyms
- (catchment basin): catchment basin, drainage basin
- (boundary between two adjacent catchment basins):
- (time after which adult material may be broadcast): safe harbor (US)
- (critical point marking a change in course or development): turning point